Commuting - Backpack Woes

I need some advice, I've been commuting for some time (20miles each way) and currently have a Pedros backpack which I love except for a few issues, the #1 biggie is my back, my lower back is killing me about 15 miles into the ride and the last 5 miles are torture, #2 is that my helmet keeps hitting the top of the bag. Any suggestions? I was looking at a Deuter Race as it seems to sit a bit lower but not sure. I can't see myself riding 20 miles with a messenger bag going around one shoulder, doesn't seem very comfortable to me and I like having the added compartments to throw my pump and etc in.

This may seem like an obvious answer but why not a rack and trunk or pannier? I have a long commute too and couldn't imagine carrying a backpack on it, I went straight for a rack and trunk bag.

This may seem like an obvious answer but why not a rack and trunk or pannier? I have a long commute too and couldn't imagine carrying a backpack on it, I went straight for a rack and trunk bag.

I thought about it but I like to switch up bikes so I can get my workouts in during my commutes since it's a long commute.

Topeak Quick Release (http://www.biketiresdirect.com/productdetail.asp?p=TPRXR&ref=pd)

The solution you seek (https://www.wingnutgear.com/product_details.cfm?id=112). I've used the '05 model in centuries so I'm sure it'd be fine for 20 miles each way (heck I use it for 15 miles each way myself).

You've got to try rack and panniers. First time I did in the middle of the summer about 6 years ago was a revelation. No back pain, no sweaty back, much cooler.

Racks are pretty cheap relative to the bags, which also do not have to be too pricey. I went for a more expensive, but more convenient route. I have the Trek Interchange Panniers and Trunk and have an interchange rack on both of my bikes.

The solution you seek (https://www.wingnutgear.com/product_details.cfm?id=112). I've used the '05 model in centuries so I'm sure it'd be fine for 20 miles each way (heck I use it for 15 miles each way myself).

Intersting idea...it looks huge though. Maybe I'll look into one of their smaller models.

I think oboeguy is on the right track. If your helmet is hitting the backpack, I'd say the shoulder straps are too tight. You want to loosen them so the pack sits as low as possible and still be stable, if the pack has a waist or chest strap, use them to improve the stability.

Lowering the pack will fix the helmet problem and reduce the load on your back.

Intersting idea...it looks huge though. Maybe I'll look into one of their smaller models.

It's not that big, but it's really amazing what I've managed to haul with it (wheels, floor pump, you name it). It's really very well thought-out and engineered. As a bonus, it's about as waterproof as you could expect a backpack to be, namely, in a downpour there might be minimal leakage and in moderate or light rain nothing gets through. I'd be at a loss if they ever stopped making them and mine broke. Anyway, PM me if you want some pics of mine.

I am currently using a Banjo Brother commuter backpack and like it alot. I have 2 bikes, one with a rack (commuter/tour bike) and the other without(road bike).

On the road bike The backpack is low enough it does not hit my helmet or block my view over the shoulder.

On the tour bike, I attached a folding wire basket to put the back pack in when I ride that bike. Perfect fit, works great. and if I decide to stop at the store on the way home on the tour bike. I just put on the back pack and stow the items bought in the basket.

It's not that big, but it's really amazing what I've managed to haul with it (wheels, floor pump, you name it). It's really very well thought-out and engineered. As a bonus, it's about as waterproof as you could expect a backpack to be, namely, in a downpour there might be minimal leakage and in moderate or light rain nothing gets through. I'd be at a loss if they ever stopped making them and mine broke. Anyway, PM me if you want some pics of mine.

Hey Oboeguy, how much does that bag weigh?

Hey Oboeguy, how much does that bag weigh?

As I mentioned via PM, it's nearly weightless. Half a pound, maybe.

I've had a request for pics. I guess I should post some. Forthcoming...

Here's a quick pic of the pack next to the 20" rear wheel of my commuter (folder).

I;m a rack and pannier guy, but I also use a Deuter Trans Alpine backpack from time to time. They are cycling specific, very comfortable, and extremely well made and designed.

Here's a quick pic of the pack next to the 20" rear wheel of my commuter (folder).

+1

I got this pack last year due to Oboeguy's ravings. It is extremely nice. It isn't too big. It is designed specifically for cycling so it sits low on your back.

My full commute is 32 miles each way.

-D

Try a messenger bag before dismissing it. I planned on getting racks and panniers for my 52mi rt commute, but gave the messenger bag a try first.

Loaded with just clothes, I have no issue at all. Loaded with clothes and laptop+power brick, the bag is a little heavy and my back does get tired by the end of the ride, but no pain. The only issue is, when carrying my laptop I have trouble riding in the drops. The bag wants to slide forward. I am hoping a larger bag will alleviate this.

I cannot comment on sweaty back issues since I just started commuting with a bag is year, and it hasn't been that hot yet.

I just fabricated a frame from 1/2" PVC plumbing pipe to fit a cheap backpack I purchased at a neighbors yard sale for $1. The pipe and fittings are cheap and don’t weight very much and you can carry extra water in the pipe if you need too.
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r154/n4zou/loaded.jpg
This is a photo of my fully loaded touring bike last fall.
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r154/n4zou/rearview.jpg
This is a photo of the rear of the PVC pipe frame and backpack.

To each, their own. But I can't imagine what the fascination is with carrying something on one's back while exerting physical effort, especially when it's not necessary. I ditto the Trek Interchange (there are other quality systems), and have two racks on seperate bikes. Click-n-Go. No sweat.

I also have a new set of Ortiebs, in case I carry thru on my threat to actually go somewhere by bike, instead of simply turning around at the edge of the world, and coming home... I sometimes use one of the Orts for wet commuting.

To each, their own. But I can't imagine what the fascination is with carrying something on one's back while exerting physical effort, especially when it's not necessary. I ditto the Trek Interchange (there are other quality systems), and have two racks on seperate bikes. Click-n-Go.

Interesting choice of works. As if people use packs due to some fascinating aspect of it. I do it out of necessity.

I have a 62mi RT commute. I ride it on my only road bike, a full carbon Giant OCR. I cannot put a rack on the bike. I could do a seatpost rack, but I would need a non-carbon seatpost anyhow.

With the right pack I hardly notice it's there.



No sweat.

Wow, I sweat even without the pack. So I don't notice much more with. But then again I am a sweaty guy.

-D

^^^^Exactly, to each his own.

The reason I use a backpack is for convenience. I put it on then I get on the bike, get off the bike much quicker. I don't need to secure, unclip anything else. It does get hot and sweaty but with the right gear its not that bad. I used to wear a walymart backpack and I have to admit it sucked. Not only was I sweating but also overheating, in the morning, at mid-40F, with a cool breeze. :mad:

Things are now better after I purchased a Marmot Zephyr based on Slvoid's thread http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=282322&highlight=marmot . I still sweat but I no longer overheat. This pack is heavier than my old bag but because of how well its designed to distribute support it feels lighter on my back. On top of that it has excellent capacity. I went grocery shopping yesterday on my way home and I had a loaf of bread, 2 boxes of cookies(3x10x7) and a bag of chips fit in the bag. Even with this load the air circulation never went away. This backpack rocks.

I had back pain as well and switched to panniers a few weeks ago. What a difference! I don't look like Quasimodo when I get off the bike now and my back feels terrific. Got some waterproof ones from Mountain Equipment Co-op so I have zero excuses for not riding as well. They're good especially for this time of year when you wear lots of clothing in the morning and not so much on the ride home.

Here's a quick pic of the pack next to the 20" rear wheel of my commuter (folder).

That's about the size of my REI Grand Teton. Good size but not massive. Thanks obe!

you can carry extra --- in the pipe if you need too.

Sorry I read your post wrong...oh where is my mind at...Note to Self No 'smoking' while commuting!

I thought about it but I like to switch up bikes so I can get my workouts in during my commutes since it's a long commute.

You can still get a workout while riding a bike with a rack.

Questions: For you guys with the panniers, when/if you have to go into a store do you leave your panniers on the bike or do you take it with you? If you do take it are there any that are easily carried around with you? I'm asking this because this is what's stopped me from considering panniers before and why I've gone the backpack route. I usually stop at high foot traffic areas like the malls, groceries and I feel uncomfortable leaving anything on the bike.

Questions: For you guys with the panniers, when/if you have to go into a store do you leave your panniers on the bike or do you take it with you? If you do take it are there any that are easily carried around with you? I'm asking this because this is what's stopped me from considering panniers before and why I've gone the backpack route. I usually stop at high foot traffic areas like the malls, groceries and I feel uncomfortable leaving anything on the bike.
I take mine with me., I use either an Arkel Bug which converts to a backpack or Ortleib Backrollers which have a shoulder strap. Both are no problem to carry.

Questions: For you guys with the panniers, when/if you have to go into a store do you leave your panniers on the bike or do you take it with you? If you do take it are there any that are easily carried around with you? I'm asking this because this is what's stopped me from considering panniers before and why I've gone the backpack route. I usually stop at high foot traffic areas like the malls, groceries and I feel uncomfortable leaving anything on the bike.

I have both, and I prefer a backpack for the reason quoted above. My REI panniers include Velcro straps that make removing them a pain in the arse. A good backpack just stays on me when I walk into the office. And I sweat, regardless of which method I'm using.

One note about backpacks: construction and design make a HUGE difference. If you're trying to use a Walmart/K-mart bookbag, you're going to be at least somewhat miserable, depending on your tolerances. I use a Dana Designs daypack, and it balances well even when it's full. In my experience, if you buy a pack that is bike- or at least hike-specific, your comfort will increase greatly.

I like my cannondale backpack, you can find it on sale for $50. I carry my computer and clother and carry it around when I get to school.
That said, I'm thinking rack just so I can carry more junk. You can only jam so many student papers in a pack before it gets plain silly.
I've just got to gear up for shopping and installation...Maybe this summer I'll be motovated by heat.

....I'll be motovated by heat.
Does this mean you are going to start driving your car?

Deuter Race Air X
This is the pack i use. I do notice the little hang loop on the top will sometimes hit the back of my helmet but i dont worry about it. a mild annoyance. It holds everything i need for my commute. A pair of boxers, a shirt and battery/light if i work the late shift with room for more like shorts or another layer and lunch. I keep my 'shower kit' at my work's shower room. I took the bladder out since i use a water bottle so that gives me a bit more room. on the outside pocket i have my wallet, cell phone, money. On the side pockets i keep my house keys and other side, my cleat covers.

Does this mean you are going to start driving your car?

Huh? No flippin way! I am hooked on this bike commute thing. So much that I'd like to work out how to move several shopping bags of food and a couple gallons of milk so I could stop driving to the store.

I might look at a bike rack and panniers (maybe first I should find out how to pronounce "panniers")
There sure are a lot of choices, and they all cost money.... I hate it when I guess wrong and have to buy something else.

Modern quality panniers have a quick-release locking mechanism that takes about 1 second at attatch or remove. Any models that still use hook and elastic should be avoided.
I carry my (single) pannier into shops. I have shoulder strap loops fixed to the bag but I only use these for airport travel.
Carradice do a good variety of large saddlebags with QR mountings. These dont need a rear rack and are very aerodynamic.

Carradice do a good variety of large saddlebags with QR mountings. These dont need a rear rack and are very aerodynamic.

linky?

linky?

also, which one do you use?

www.carradice.co.uk/type.htm

I have the SQR Slim, bought it through the webpage. They are very nice, just pull the release lever and lift it off the bike. I'd think they work with carbon posts because the mounting bracket is large and distributes the pressure over ~5" of seatpost (that's from memory, not measuring) and the bag is close to the seatpost, not cantilevered several inches behind the seat like trunk bags on seatpost racks, so the bending force on the seatpost is smaller.

They are not light, but the lack of a rack compensates somewhat. They are rainproof. The Slim will carry all but the largest laptop computers and 8-1/2 x 11 or A4 papers flat. Other than that I would prefer the Tour which has the same capacity but is narrower and taller to pack easier and has side compartments for bike tools. I use a wedge pack strapped to the D-rings on the Slim bag for my bike tools, etc. and transfer it to the seat when not using the Carradice bag.

www.carradice.co.uk/type.htm

I have the SQR Slim, bought it through the webpage. They are very nice, just pull the release lever and lift it off the bike. I'd think they work with carbon posts because the mounting bracket is large and distributes the pressure over ~5" of seatpost (that's from memory, not measuring) and the bag is close to the seatpost, not cantilevered several inches behind the seat like trunk bags on seatpost racks, so the bending force on the seatpost is smaller.

They are not light, but the lack of a rack compensates somewhat. They are rainproof. The Slim will carry all but the largest laptop computers and 8-1/2 x 11 or A4 papers flat. Other than that I would prefer the Tour which has the same capacity but is narrower and taller to pack easier and has side compartments for bike tools. I use a wedge pack strapped to the D-rings on the Slim bag for my bike tools, etc. and transfer it to the seat when not using the Carradice bag.


Interesting. Do you find your legs rubbing against the bag as you pedal? It seems to be kinda wide near the seatpost.

-D

I just fabricated a frame from 1/2" PVC plumbing pipe to fit a cheap backpack I purchased at a neighbors yard sale for $1. The pipe and fittings are cheap and don’t weight very much and you can carry extra water in the pipe if you need too.
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r154/n4zou/loaded.jpg
This is a photo of my fully loaded touring bike last fall.
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r154/n4zou/rearview.jpg
This is a photo of the rear of the PVC pipe frame and backpack.

Is that a GAS MASK CARRIER on the front? I havent seen one of those in FOREVER!

Billy

I commute about 13 miles and have had good luck over the last 3 years with a day pack I bought from Eastem Mountain Sports. It's hiking, not cycling specific but fits well and works for me. I also add mileage to my commute at times and have ridden with it for 20-25 miles. As far as back pain goes, I've had back issues for years. Biking with a pack has not made it any worse (or better). Back problems for me are more related to my level of condition (worse in the spring), my core condition (whether or not I've been doing the core exercises prescribed by my physical therapist), and my bike fit. The up side of commuting with a pack (on a hilly commute), is it really gets you in shape for the climbs! For me, my back problems are there regardless of whether or not I'm riding with a pack. If for you, it is the cause of the problems, then lose it and try something else, but you may want to investigate other possible causes also.